Okay, so I’m starting to think about taking the SAT and I know I’ll probably need accommodations, but I’m completely lost on where to even begin figuring this out. I have diagnosed ADHD (and anxiety, which sometimes flares up during tests) and I really struggle with time limits. I think I would benefit greatly from extended time.
Specifically, I’m wondering:
- What kind of documentation do I need to provide to College Board? I have paperwork from my doctor and my school psychologist, but is there anything specific they are looking for? Does it need to be recent?
- How long does the whole process take? I’m aiming to take the SAT sometime in the spring, so how far in advance do I need to start applying for accommodations?
- Is there a specific form I need to fill out, or is it all done online? If there’s a form, where can I find it?
- What are the different types of accommodations available besides extended time? I might need other things, but I’m not sure what all the options are.
- Is it different applying for accommodations if I have an IEP or a 504 plan at school? Do I just submit that as proof, or do I still need the other documentation?
- Is it worth it to even try? I’ve heard some people say College Board is really difficult about approving accommodations. I don’t want to go through a huge hassle if it’s unlikely I’ll get approved anyway.
Basically, any guidance on navigating the SAT accommodations process would be super helpful! I’m feeling really overwhelmed by it all.
Answer
To receive accommodations on the SAT due to a disability, you must apply to the College Board, the organization that administers the SAT. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the process:
1. Determine Eligibility and Necessary Documentation:
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Disability Definition: The College Board provides accommodations for students with documented disabilities that affect their ability to take the SAT under standard conditions. These disabilities can include but are not limited to:
- Learning disabilities (e.g., dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia)
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Physical disabilities (e.g., visual impairment, motor impairments)
- Psychological disabilities (e.g., anxiety disorders)
- Medical conditions
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Required Documentation: The cornerstone of your request is comprehensive documentation that clearly demonstrates the impact of your disability on your ability to take the SAT. This documentation typically includes:
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Psychoeducational or Neuropsychological Evaluation (for Learning Disabilities, ADHD, and certain other conditions): This is generally the most crucial component. The evaluation must be current (usually within the last five years, though this can vary depending on the disability and specific College Board guidelines). The evaluation should:
- Be conducted by a qualified professional (e.g., licensed psychologist, neuropsychologist, educational psychologist). The College Board specifies acceptable credentials for evaluators.
- Clearly state the specific diagnosis or diagnoses.
- Describe the comprehensive testing methods used (including specific tests administered, subtest scores, and interpretive narrative).
- Detail how the disability substantially limits a major life activity (e.g., reading, writing, concentrating, test-taking).
- Provide a rationale for each requested accommodation, linking the requested accommodation directly to the functional limitations caused by the disability. It should explain why the standard testing conditions are inadequate and how the specific accommodation will mitigate the impact of the disability.
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Medical Documentation (for Physical Disabilities or Medical Conditions): If your disability is physical or medical, you’ll need documentation from a qualified medical professional (e.g., physician, specialist). This documentation should:
- Clearly state the diagnosis and the severity of the condition.
- Describe the impact of the condition on your ability to take the SAT under standard conditions.
- Specify the requested accommodations and provide a clear rationale for each accommodation, explaining how it will address the limitations imposed by the medical condition.
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IEP or 504 Plan (if applicable): While an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan alone is generally not sufficient documentation, it can be a helpful supplement, especially if it clearly outlines the history of accommodations received in school. If you submit an IEP or 504 Plan, be sure it is current and includes:
- A clear statement of the disability.
- A list of accommodations you currently receive in school.
- Evidence that the accommodations have been effective in addressing your needs.
- A connection between the accommodations you receive in school and the accommodations you are requesting for the SAT.
- School Documentation (if applicable): This may include teacher observations, report cards, or other records that support your request. These are most helpful when they provide specific examples of how your disability affects your performance in academic settings.
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2. Requesting Accommodations Through the College Board SSD Online:
- SSD Online Account: You (or your school counselor) must create an account through the College Board’s Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) Online system.
- Request Form: Complete the online accommodations request form. This form will require you to provide information about your disability, the accommodations you are requesting, and the rationale for those accommodations.
- Document Upload: Upload all required documentation, including the comprehensive evaluation report, medical documentation (if applicable), and any supporting documentation such as IEP/504 plans or school records. Ensure all documents are legible and in a supported file format (e.g., PDF).
- Deadlines: The College Board has specific deadlines for submitting accommodations requests for each SAT test date. It is critical to submit your request well in advance of your desired test date to allow sufficient time for processing. Check the College Board website for the most up-to-date deadlines. Submitting well before the deadline is highly recommended, as incomplete or unclear documentation can cause delays.
3. Specific Accommodations and Considerations:
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Common Accommodations: The most frequently requested accommodations include:
- Extended Time: The most common accommodation. The standard extended time is 50% additional time, but some students may qualify for 100% (double) time.
- Breaks: Scheduled breaks during the test.
- Small Group Testing: Taking the test in a separate room with fewer students.
- Use of a Computer for Essay: For students with writing disabilities.
- Large-Print or Braille Test: For students with visual impairments.
- Reader or Scribe: For students with visual or motor impairments (requires very strong documentation).
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Accommodation Justification: The key to a successful request is demonstrating a clear link between your disability and the specific accommodations you are requesting. The documentation must explain why each requested accommodation is necessary to provide you with a fair and equitable testing environment.
- Consistency: It is helpful if the accommodations you are requesting for the SAT are consistent with the accommodations you have received in school. However, this is not always a requirement. The College Board will evaluate each request based on the documentation provided, regardless of whether you have received similar accommodations in the past.
4. College Board Review and Decision:
- Review Process: The College Board’s SSD department will review your request and documentation. They may request additional information or clarification.
- Notification: You will receive a notification of the College Board’s decision, typically via email or through your SSD Online account.
- Approval/Denial: If your request is approved, the notification will specify the approved accommodations. If your request is denied, the notification will explain the reasons for the denial and outline the appeal process.
5. Using Approved Accommodations:
- Register for the SAT: Once your accommodations are approved, you must register for the SAT and indicate that you have approved accommodations.
- Test Day: On test day, you will need to bring your admission ticket and any required documentation, such as a photo ID. The test center staff will be aware of your approved accommodations.
6. Appeals:
- If your accommodations request is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. The appeal process is outlined on the College Board website and in the notification you receive. You will typically need to provide additional documentation or information to support your appeal.
Important Considerations and Tips:
- Start Early: Begin the accommodations request process well in advance of your desired test date. Gathering the necessary documentation can take time.
- Consult with Your School Counselor: Your school counselor can provide valuable assistance with the accommodations request process. They may have experience with previous students who have requested accommodations and can help you gather the necessary documentation.
- Ensure Documentation is Comprehensive and Current: The quality and completeness of your documentation are critical. Make sure the evaluation report is current, thorough, and clearly demonstrates the impact of your disability.
- Request Only Necessary Accommodations: Only request accommodations that are directly related to your disability and will genuinely help you perform your best on the SAT. Overly broad requests can be viewed with skepticism.
- Understand College Board Guidelines: Familiarize yourself with the College Board’s specific guidelines for accommodations requests. This information is available on their website.
- Maintain Communication: Respond promptly to any requests for additional information from the College Board.
- If you have a 504 plan or IEP make sure that the documentation reflects what accommodations you have been using.
- Consider professional help. It may be beneficial to consult with an educational consultant or advocate who specializes in helping students with disabilities navigate the college admissions process.
By following these steps and providing thorough documentation, you can increase your chances of receiving the accommodations you need to take the SAT under fair and equitable conditions.
